Texas Man Wanted for Murder After Allegedly Shooting Roommate Over $250 Rent Dispute

Texas Man Wanted for Murder After Allegedly Shooting Roommate Over $250 Rent Dispute

HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS — A tragic and senseless act of violence has left a young man dead and another on the run after an argument over rent turned deadly in Harris County. Authorities are actively searching for 21-year-old Angel Gomez Montanez, who is wanted for murder in the fatal shooting of his roommate, 18-year-old Christopher Rodriguez Lara.

The incident occurred at an apartment on Butte Creek Road, where both men had been living. According to investigators with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, Montanez had reportedly been staying at the apartment without contributing to rent for the past three months. When Rodriguez Lara asked him to pay $250—a modest amount meant to help with shared living expenses—an argument broke out.

That disagreement escalated quickly and took a tragic turn. Witnesses say that during the heated exchange, Montanez pulled out a handgun and shot Rodriguez Lara. First responders arrived at the scene shortly after the shooting, but despite life-saving efforts, the 18-year-old victim was pronounced dead.

Montanez fled the apartment before deputies arrived and remains at large. A warrant has been issued for his arrest on a murder charge, and authorities are urging the public to come forward with any information that could lead to his capture.

“This was a completely avoidable tragedy,” said a spokesperson for the Harris County Sheriff’s Office. “A young man’s life was cut short over a rent dispute that should never have escalated to violence. Now, a family is left to grieve, and another young man faces a future behind bars.”

Montanez is considered armed and dangerous. Officials are warning the public not to approach him if spotted and instead to call law enforcement immediately.

The death of Christopher Rodriguez Lara has left his family, friends, and community devastated. Described by those who knew him as kind-hearted and hardworking, his life was just beginning. What should have been a simple disagreement ended in irreversible loss.

As the manhunt continues, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone with information about Angel Gomez Montanez’s whereabouts to contact Crime Stoppers of Houston at 713-222-TIPS (8477). Callers can remain anonymous, and a reward may be offered for information leading to an arrest.

This case serves as a somber reminder of how quickly anger and violence can destroy lives. Justice now depends on finding the suspect and holding him accountable for this tragic and senseless crime.